Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week in Vietnam: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Saturday, September 30: Ho Chi Minh City

Begin your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant metropolis formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. Afterward, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can find local handicrafts and sample delicious street food. In the afternoon, take a leisurely cruise along the Saigon River to relax and enjoy the city's skyline. In the evening, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Nguyen Hue Walking Street, filled with street performances and food stalls.

  • War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee around 40,000 VND (~$1.75), 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free entrance, shopping and dining prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Afternoon River Cruise: Prices start at 200,000 VND (~$8.70) per person, 1-2 hours
  • Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free entrance, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 1: Hoi An

Travel to the ancient town of Hoi An, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets. Start your morning with a stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Chinese Assembly Halls. In the afternoon, take a bike ride to the nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can participate in farming activities and enjoy a cooking class. In the evening, witness the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's lantern festival along the Thu Bon River.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance fee around 120,000 VND (~$5.20), 2-4 hours
  • Tra Que Vegetable Village: Cooking class prices start at 200,000 VND (~$8.70) per person, 3-4 hours
  • Hoi An Lantern Festival: Free entrance, 2-3 hours
Monday, October 2: Hue

Embark on a journey to the imperial city of Hue, known for its rich history and UNESCO-listed monuments. Start your day by visiting the complex of the Imperial Citadel, which once served as the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River to reach the Thien Mu Pagoda and explore its tranquil surroundings. Wrap up your day with a visit to the mesmerizing Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

  • Imperial Citadel: Entrance fee around 150,000 VND (~$6.50), 2-3 hours
  • Perfume River Boat Ride: Prices start at 150,000 VND (~$6.50) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free entrance, 1-2 hours
  • Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh: Entrance fee around 150,000 VND (~$6.50), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Halong Bay

Head to the magnificent Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. In the morning, embark on a memorable cruise through the bay, marveling at the scenic landscapes and exploring the fascinating caves. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, try your hand at kayaking or simply relax and swim in the bay's crystal-clear waters. As the day draws to a close, witness a magical sunset over the bay.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Prices start at $100 per person, including meals, 4-6 hours
  • Kayaking: Prices start at $20 per person, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi, the capital city filled with history and traditional charm. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of the Jade Mountain. Explore the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, renowned for its bustling markets and street food. In the afternoon, delve into Vietnamese history at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Don't miss the chance to attend a traditional water puppet show in the evening, showcasing Vietnam's folklore and culture.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Temple of the Jade Mountain: Free entrance, 2-3 hours
  • Old Quarter: Shopping and dining prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Entrance fee around 40,000 VND (~$1.75), 2-3 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: Prices start at 100,000 VND (~$4.35) per person, 1 hour
Thursday, October 5: Ninh Binh

Travel to Ninh Binh, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land." In the morning, visit the extraordinary Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO-listed landscape featuring limestone karsts and serene waterways. Take a boat ride through the natural caves and admire the breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and visit the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties. Conclude your day with a scenic bike ride around the beautiful countryside.

  • Trang An Grottoes: Entrance fee around 200,000 VND (~$8.70), 2-3 hours
  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Entrance fee around 20,000 VND (~$0.87), 1-2 hours
  • Bike Ride: Bike rental prices start at 50,000 VND (~$2.17), 1-2 hours
Friday, October 6: Phu Quoc

Conclude your trip with a relaxing beach getaway on the tropical island of Phu Quoc. Spend the morning exploring the island's pristine beaches, such as Long Beach and Ong Lang Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water activities. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Dinh Cau Night Market, offering a wide array of local delicacies and souvenirs. Enjoy a delightful seafood dinner by the beach and take in the picturesque sunset.

  • Phu Quoc Beaches: Free entrance, activities and dining prices vary, 2-4 hours
  • Dinh Cau Night Market: Free entrance, dining and shopping prices vary, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, head to Vinpearl Land in Nha Trang. This amusement park offers thrilling rides, a water park, and an aquarium, ensuring a day full of fun and excitement for all ages. Another hidden gem is the Bai Dai Beach in Phu Quoc, a secluded stretch of white sand with clear turquoise waters, perfect for a peaceful family day at the beach. Don't forget to try the local specialty, banh xeo, a delicious Vietnamese pancake filled with various ingredients, during your trip.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your Vietnam adventure!

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version